Petrochemical Matter

The world remains heavily reliant on fossil fuels (coal, oil and natural gas) for both energy and – in the case of oil – the manufacture of most plastics. The emergence of plastic opened up the doors of design to everyone, leading to cheaper and more innovative products. Once seen as the cornerstone of growth, petrochemical matter is now recognised as a global issue and a significant contributor to the climate emergency. Plastic is still being produced at exponentially increasing rates.

This material, which can be found in nearly every aspect of our daily lives, from packaging to industrial components, ends its life as polluting waste. Microplastics – particles that are infiltrating our oceans, the food chain and even living organisms – have a devastating impact on health and the environment. In order to tackle the plastic crisis, we must rethink our relationship with this material. Designers and architects play a key role in leading regenerative solutions based on reusing existing plastic and minimising its environmental impact.